Understanding orthopedic rehabilitation
To better understand orthopedic rehabilitation, it is important to know its definition and purpose. Orthopedic rehabilitation refers to the set of techniques and treatments used to help people recover from musculoskeletal injuries.
Its main objective is to restore the function and mobility of affected joints, muscles and bones through exercise programs, physical and occupational therapies, and other customized approaches.
Definition and purpose of orthopedic rehabilitation
Orthopedic rehabilitation is a field of medicine that focuses on recovery from injuries related to the musculoskeletal system.
This type of rehabilitation can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and injuries, including bone fractures, muscle tears, sports injuries and degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.
The main purpose of orthopedic rehabilitation is to improve patients’ quality of life , relieve pain, restore function and prevent future injuries.
Orthopedic rehabilitation process
The orthopedic rehabilitation process may vary depending on the severity and type of injury. It generally begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient, including diagnostic testing, physical evaluation, and discussion of symptoms and medical history.
From this evaluation, an individualized treatment plan is established that may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, specific exercises, manipulative therapy and other techniques.
The main objective during the rehabilitation process is to gradually improve mobility, strength and function of the affected area. This is achieved through specific exercises designed to strengthen muscles and stabilize joints, as well as therapies that relieve inflammation and pain.
In addition, the use of assistive devices, such as splints or braces, may be included to support recovery.
It is important to note that orthopedic rehabilitation focuses not only on treating the injury itself, but also on educating the patient on prevention and self-care techniques to avoid future problems.
Types of orthopedic rehabilitation
There are several types of orthopedic rehabilitation, each designed to meet specific patient needs. Below, you will discover three of the most common types:
Postoperative rehabilitation
Postoperative rehabilitation is a type of rehabilitation performed after orthopedic surgery. The main objective of this therapy is to accelerate the recovery process and improve long-term results.
During postoperative rehabilitation, specific exercises can be performed to strengthen muscles, improve mobility and reduce the risk of complications.
Rehabilitation of sports injuries
This type of rehabilitation focuses on treating muscle and joint injuries caused by the practice of sports.
Rehabilitation of sports injuries can vary depending on the type of injury and the sport practiced, but generally includes strengthening exercises, stretching, physical therapy and sport-specific recovery techniques.
Geriatric rehabilitation
Geriatric rehabilitation is designed to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life as they age.
This type of rehabilitation may include strengthening exercises, physical and occupational therapy, and fall prevention techniques. The main objective is to improve mobility and balance, as well as to relieve pain and reduce the risk of injury.
Techniques and treatments in orthopedic rehabilitation
Orthopedic rehabilitation is based on a variety of techniques and treatments that are adapted to the individual needs of each patient. Some of the most common techniques are:
Physical therapy and exercise
Physical therapy plays a fundamental role in orthopedic rehabilitation. This therapy may include a variety of exercises designed to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and improve coordination and balance.
Exercises can also help reduce pain, promote tissue healing and improve joint mobility.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy focuses on helping patients perform daily tasks and work activities safely and efficiently. This therapy focuses on improving hand and arm function, as well as developing daily living skills such as dressing, grooming and cooking.
Occupational therapy may include strengthening exercises, manual therapy and the use of assistive devices.
Manipulative therapyb
Manipulative therapy is a therapeutic approach that involves manual techniques to relieve pain and improve mobility. There are different manipulative techniques used in orthopedic rehabilitation, such as manual therapy, therapeutic massage and joint manipulation.
These techniques can be especially beneficial in treating problems such as muscle contracture and restriction of movement in the joints.
Benefits of orthopedic rehabilitation
Orthopedic rehabilitation offers a number of significant benefits for patients who receive it. Some of these benefits include:
Improved mobility and strength
One of the main benefits of orthopedic rehabilitation is to improve the mobility and strength of affected joints and muscles. Specific exercise programs and therapies can help strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and improve joint range of motion.
This allows patients to gradually regain their ability to move without restrictions and perform their daily activities more effectively.
Pain reduction
Orthopedic rehabilitation can also help reduce pain related to musculoskeletal injuries.
Physical therapies, manipulative techniques and other therapeutic interventions can relieve inflammation, reduce muscle tension and promote the release of endorphins, natural hormones that help reduce the sensation of pain.
Prevention of future injuries
Another important benefit of orthopedic rehabilitation is the prevention of future injuries. Through strengthening exercises, balance therapies and fall prevention techniques, rehabilitation professionals can teach patients to adopt proper habits and posture to avoid recurring injuries.
Rehabilitation may also include counseling on the use of protective equipment and the adoption of specific prevention strategies according to each patient’s lifestyle and physical activities.
If you are considering orthopedic rehabilitation, don’t hesitate to visit Estudio Aequus for a treatment plan that is right for you.
Your orthopedic rehabilitation specialist
María José Sosa
- Pilates Mat Training, Personal Pilates, UY, 2013 Pilates in Pregnancy, Personal Pilates, UY, 2014 Reformer, UY, 2014
- Rehabilitation and injury prevention, UY, 2016-2017 Specialization in ankle – knee – hip, ES 2022.
- Currently undergoing a new Pilates Mat & Studio training with Isaac Hernandez’s XTensal, 2022-2023.
